Alchimie Forever Blends Science and Nature

By: Leslie Benson

Posted: November 21, 2008

Ada Polla

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GCI: What have been the milestones thus far in your career?

Ada Polla: Being on the cover of Business Week Small Biz was definitely one of the highlights! So unexpected, it never even made it on my “list of things I must accomplish!” The funniest part about that was seeing myself in all the airport newsstands for a month or so! In addition, the milestones I am most proud of include building a team (we are currently eight), developing our brand name (some people when I introduce myself now say, “Oh yes I have heard of your line”), and launching at Sephora in France this spring.

GCI: What skills have you learned from your parents, doctors Luigi and Barbara Polla, which have made you especially successful on an international level in the beauty industry?

Ada Polla: My father really instilled a sense of hard work and passion in me. He loves to help others feel good, and I think that is one of the rewards for our business. He has also taught me about vision and creative force—thinking outside the box, not doing things the way everyone has always done them. My mother has taught me that in reality there is no such thing as work-life balance; work is life and life is work when you own your business. As such, it is absolutely essential to have fun every day, in your work life. I love what I do and would not want to do anything else. As long as I can tell myself that honestly, life is good.

GCI: Your parents are specialists in cellular aging. Where do you think the antiaging skin care segment is heading in the next five years on a global level?

Ada Polla: I believe the antiaging segment is due for a reality check. My sense is that it will continue to grow significantly; people will always want to look younger. But there has been so much growth in this area in the last few years, I expect some consolidation. I also feel that some of the claims on the market are outlandish and that consumers are going to demand more realistic, honest marketing from antiaging skin care manufacturers.